Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is unfazed by the expanding controversy over the Senate rigging case, insisting that the law must be upheld. He said he has not made any assessments because the Bhumjaithai Party is not involved, and he has instructed his team to review the 'Thongjua' report. He firmly stated he will not protect or shield anyone.
On 20 Sep 2026 at 08:45 at Military Airport 2, Wing 6, Don Mueang, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul was interviewed about the Senate rigging case, which seems unresolved at the Election Commission (EC) level but is expanding to other agencies. Asked if he was concerned, Anutin said everything must follow the law. The constitution sets the procedures and independent organizations to adjudicate such cases and defines citizens' rights. If everyone abides by the constitution, there will be no problem. When asked if the Bhumjaithai Party had assessed why people still doubt its non-involvement, Anutin replied that no assessment was made because the party is not involved.
He said he has instructed his team to review the 'Thongjua' report.
Anutin also commented on a reply letter from the Royal Thai Police Chief regarding inquiries into the connection of Thongjua Chatkitcharoen, a member of the Prime Minister's team, with the local civil service exam corruption case, though details have not been disclosed yet. He said he is waiting for the right time as he personally requested the information. When asked if he still adheres to the principle of anonymity but accountability in anti-corruption, he confirmed, "Yes, definitely. No worries, otherwise why ask?" He said he asked openly and is confident in combating corruption. Asked if he had questioned Thongjua about the incident, Anutin said Thongjua prepared a report addressing the accusations and his actions. After reviewing the report, Anutin's team found no wrongdoing but proceeded to request background checks from the police and the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). Since he does not oversee the NACC, he first sent the request to the police. He will submit the findings to all relevant agencies. If any allegations are substantiated, they will be investigated thoroughly, including other related individuals. If anyone connected to his team is involved, he will ensure thorough inquiry with formal documentation, holding signatories fully accountable. He emphasized his effort to maintain maximum transparency and clarity.
He firmly stated he will not protect or shield anyone.
When pressed on whether the process should be expedited because it involves someone close to the Prime Minister, Anutin said the inquiry took less than a week to receive responses. If relevant agencies inquire further, he will consider their input but may submit his responses for agencies to conclude. Regardless of outcomes, the policy of anonymity but accountability remains. He urged the public not to worry about him protecting anyone in his position, saying doing so would shorten his own career, and he will absolutely not do that. When asked if corruption in civil service exams will be eliminated as long as this government is in power, Anutin said it will definitely be blocked from now on.